Frequently Asked Questions

You may have a number of questions about the library and how it operates. Below are several FAQs that should help you. If you still have questions, please feel free to contact us for further assistance.

How do I check materials out of the library?

Persons wishing to check out library materials need to have, and bring a library card. Items checked out for differing periods of time and can be renewed. Items must be returned by closing time of the libraries to avoid overdue charges. Persons with overdue items or charges are not permitted to check out further items.

Can I access the Internet from the Library?

The library system has Internet computer workstations at all locations for your use. Access to the Internet is through OPLIN (Ohio Public Library Information Network) and requires that the user sign the Acceptable Use Policy. Parental signature is required for those users under 18.

The Library has a Local History and Genealogy Department, which is located at the Schiappa Branch Library. See History & Genealogy

How is the Public Library System funded?

The Library System, like the 250 other public libraries in Ohio, is funded by a dedicated fund allocated by the Ohio Legislature. The Public Library Fund receives a percentage of the general revenues of Ohio. In 2010, the electorate of Jefferson County approved a property tax levy for the Library System to address a 31% cut in the State Public Library Fund.

The Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County was one of the first four libraries to join the Southeastern Ohio Library Center at Caldwell, Ohio in 1988. Our collections were added to that database established by the State Library of Ohio. Today, there are ninety library systems (which includes 201 buildings) connected on that database with nearly seven million items. Those items are available for interlibrary loan to the public for pick-up at your local library. OPLIN was established in 1995 by the Ohio Legislature. OPLIN began linking public libraries to the Ohio State Supercomputer Center in Columbus to provide Internet access to public libraries and to provide commercial databases to libraries.

How can the Library help me find the information I need?

The Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County employs 66 people in the seven library locations to assist you with your information needs. Use the Contact Us page, or simply ask at the desk for assistance. If your information need is complex, we may ask that you contact us ahead of time so we can work on your request before you come to the library.

How much are the overdue fines?

The Library System charges overdue fines of ten cents a day for all items not returned, whether books or other material such as CDs or movies. Overdue fines accumulate to a maximum of $5.00 per item. Overdue notices are mailed, emailed and sent in text messages to borrowers to remind them of items that are overdue from the library (let your library branch know which method of communication you prefer). Once items are overdue, or you accumulate more than $2.00 in overdue fines, your library card is delinquent and you cannot check out any further items.

Does the Library offer electronic databases that I can use from home?

Yes! For everything from auto repair guides online to practicing college entrance exams, we have you covered! Please use the eResources page for more information and links to what incredible websites are just a click away.

How do I download an eBook from the Library?

PLSJ offers eBooks for download on almost any mobile device or computer. Please click our eBooks link to connect with our digital downloads page. If you are using a smartphone or tablet, you can download the Overdrive Media Console app from your app store. Using your library card and your PIN (four digits - most likely the last four of your phone number), you can pick and choose eBooks to download. We have well over 160,000 titles and counting! For more information, check out the HELP button on our eBook page or stop in to your local branch and talk to a knowledgeable librarian. We even offer periodic "Tech Help" days in which you may schedule one-on-one time to have eBooks explained to you in further detail.